The Montreal Impact and Jesse Marsch part ways

MONTREAL – The Montreal Impact announced on Saturday morning that the club and head coach Jesse Marsch have mutually agreed to part ways.

“It is important to clarify that this is not a dismissal or a resignation, but rather an amicable parting of ways,” said Impact president Joey Saputo. “Although the decision was a tough one to make, it was made mutually for the benefit of the club. While we had the same long-term objectives for this team, we realized over the past few weeks that we did not share the same philosophy as how to get there. Jesse always had the club at heart and he did his very best to succeed.”

“Today, this is first and foremost a question of respect,” said Marsch. “Respect for this club, what it has accomplished and where it is heading in the future. I had several discussions with Joey and Nick on how we could make it work and the conclusion was that this amicable split is the best solution for the club going forward. I am extremely proud to have been part of this organization. I will always be grateful to Joey and Nick for having given me this great opportunity.”

In the interim, assistant coaches Mike Sorber, Denis Hamlett and Mauro Biello will take charge of the team. Impact U21 head coach Philippe Eullaffroy will travel with the team for the Italy tour.

“With Jesse, we have put in place a good base for the future and we will now take all the necessary time and steps to find our next head coach,” added the Impact’s president.

Burpo and Rotchstein not returning

The club also announced that goalkeeper coach Preston Burpo and physical preparation coach Adam Rotchstein will not be returning to the club in 2013.